Brick cleaning guide
How brick cleaning works on London properties
London brickwork faces unique challenges. Over a century of urban pollution, soot, biological growth and weathering leaves most period properties with brickwork far from its original appearance. Here is how professional brick cleaning works and what you can expect from the process.
Most London properties are built from brick, and most of that brickwork is significantly older than the buildings that surround it in other UK cities. Victorian terraces, Edwardian townhouses and Georgian facades throughout the capital carry decades or even centuries of pollution, soot deposits, biological growth, mortar staining and general urban grime that has bonded to the brick surface over time. Professional brick cleaning removes this contamination without damaging the brick or mortar, restoring the original appearance and in many cases transforming the entire character of a building.
140+ years
of accumulated pollution and carbon deposits typical on unrestored Victorian brickwork in London
Test patch
always required before any brick cleaning to confirm the method and product are appropriate for that specific brick
DOFF steam
superheated low-pressure steam is the safest method for period and heritage brickwork in London conservation areas
What makes London brickwork different
London's urban environment creates a specific set of contamination challenges for brickwork. Traffic exhaust, diesel particulates, industrial fallout and centuries of coal burning before the Clean Air Acts have left layers of carbon deposits bonded to the face of bricks across the capital. Biological growth including algae, moss and lichens thrive in London's damp climate. Paint from previous decorating schemes encapsulates older properties. Each of these contamination types requires a different cleaning approach, and the wrong choice can permanently damage the brick or mortar. Victorian and Edwardian brickwork in particular uses soft stock brick with lime mortar, and high-pressure water washing or strong acid-based chemicals can erode both the brick face and the mortar pointing.
Cleaning methodsThe main brick cleaning methods and when each is used
DOFF steam cleaning
Superheated steam at up to 150°C with low pressure. Removes algae, moss, organic growth and surface soiling without saturating or eroding the brick. The safest method for period brickwork and conservation areas.
Chemical cleaning
Specialist alkaline or acidic solutions applied with dwell time to break down carbon deposits, efflorescence and mortar staining. Used for deeper soiling where steam alone is insufficient. Requires careful selection by brick and stain type.
Low-pressure wet abrasive
Fine abrasive material mixed with water delivered at low pressure. Removes paint and deep staining from period brickwork without the damage risk of traditional sandblasting. Used for paint removal from brick.
Pressure washing (limited use)
Standard hot water pressure washing is used for surface soiling on dense, modern brickwork. It is not suitable for Victorian soft stock brick, lime mortar or any brickwork in a conservation area.
How professional brick cleaning works: the process
1. Assessment and test patch
Every brick cleaning project starts with a detailed inspection of the brickwork, brick type, mortar composition and the nature of the contamination. A test patch is carried out on a discreet area to confirm the chosen method and product produce the desired result without damage before full-scale cleaning begins.
2. Protection of surrounding surfaces
Windows, doors, adjacent stonework and landscaping are protected before cleaning begins. Runoff from chemical cleaning must be contained and disposed of correctly, particularly in London where drainage regulations apply.
3. Application of the chosen cleaning method
The selected method is applied systematically across the brickwork. For DOFF steam, this means methodical passes at close range with the steam nozzle. For chemical cleaning, products are applied, allowed to dwell and then rinsed thoroughly. The pace of work is dictated by the condition of the brick and the depth of soiling.
4. Rinse and inspection
All cleaning solutions and loosened contamination are rinsed from the surface. The cleaned brickwork is then inspected for any missed areas, remaining staining or any areas where a second treatment may be beneficial.
Brick cleaning London
Professional brick cleaning across London by Cloud Nine
Cloud Nine provides professional brick cleaning for residential and commercial properties across London. We assess each property individually, carry out a test patch before any full-scale work begins and use the correct method for the brick type and soiling present. Contact us for a free quote.
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Brick cleaning help and guidance
Everything you need to know about brick cleaning for London properties, from methods and costs to what to expect from a professional clean.
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